Land Vehicle Exercise (LVEX) SBRI Phase2 - ISTEC Signature Reduction Molle

PHASE 2 ACTIVITY

Phase 1 activity ISTEC developed the camouflage concept into a demonstrator suitable for fitment to a Protected Weapon Station. For Phase 2 it is expected that a prototype solution covering a complete platform will be supplied.

The whole platform solution will then be tested and demonstrated against current in-service camouflage to quantify the benefits of the system with respect to Visual, Near Infra-Red (Image intensifier) and Far Infra-Red (Thermal) signature. Radar signature is not to be considered. The MOLLE stowage concepts shall be carried forward through further development, considering weight distribution, ergonomics and accessibility. These will exist only on inner surfaces of the platform, and where is deemed useful by the designer, after consideration of common uses and configurations.

Ease of application, replacement and maintenance shall also be considered with a focus on the simplicity of the aforementioned by non-technical users wherever possible. Trials are likely to examine some aspects of this. Environmental robustness must be considered throughout. Due to the lack of environmental sealing, some consideration must be given to the effect of water saturation on the solutions weight, usability and fitting.

Whilst creating a whole platform solution it will be required to consider as a design exercise and feasibility study, the fitment of the solution to another/modified platform (TBD at kick-off), which is likely to be fitted with armour packs for theatre and/or may have a number of additional retrofitted equipment. The contractor is expected to provide a prototype system.